The Youth Transforming Africa Narrative (YOTAN), a non-governmental organization committed to youth empowerment and good governance, recently extended its support to underprivileged students at the John Flomo Bakalu High School in Gbarnga, Bong County, Liberia. The organization, which focuses on fostering sustainable socio-economic development and impact across Africa by creating an inclusive and accountable democratic society, donated backpacks and copybooks to over 30 less fortunate students. This act of generosity forms part of YOTAN’s broader initiative to ensure young people, particularly marginalized girls, can thrive and reach their full potential.
The donation is a component of YOTAN’s ongoing “Empowering Next Generation of Adolescent Girls Through Education (ENGAGE)” project. Launched in 2019, ENGAGE provides comprehensive educational support to over 120 girls across Bong and Lofa counties. This support encompasses full tuition coverage and the provision of essential educational materials, aiming to bridge the educational gap and guarantee equitable access to quality education for all girls, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds. The project specifically targets girls who have dropped out of school due to teenage pregnancy and early marriage, providing them with a second chance at education and empowering them to break free from the cycle of poverty and social disadvantage often associated with these circumstances.
YOTAN’s overarching mission is to facilitate access to education for these vulnerable girls, recognizing education as a powerful tool for social transformation. By addressing the root causes of school dropout and providing comprehensive support, YOTAN strives to create a brighter future for these girls and their communities. The ENGAGE project strategically tackles the intertwined challenges of teenage pregnancy and early child marriage, two significant obstacles to girls’ education and overall well-being in many parts of Africa. Through education, YOTAN aims to equip these girls with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices about their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
The ENGAGE project is generously supported by Mundo Cooperate, a Spanish institution actively campaigning against early and forced child marriage. This partnership underscores the global recognition of the importance of girls’ education and the collective effort required to address the complex challenges that hinder their progress. Mundo Cooperate’s commitment to combating child marriage aligns perfectly with YOTAN’s mission, creating a synergistic force for positive change in the lives of vulnerable girls. This collaboration amplifies the impact of the ENGAGE project, reaching more girls and providing them with the necessary support to overcome the societal pressures that often lead to early marriage.
During the presentation of the educational materials, Mr. Donnish M. Pewee, YOTAN’s Executive Director in Liberia, reiterated the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting adolescent girls across the country. His words not only highlighted YOTAN’s dedication but also underscored the urgency of addressing the educational disparities faced by marginalized girls. He called upon the Liberian government to prioritize inclusive and equitable education, emphasizing the crucial role of government intervention in creating a supportive environment for all learners. By advocating for increased government involvement, YOTAN seeks to foster a sustainable and systemic change that will benefit generations of girls to come.
The beneficiaries of the donation expressed their sincere gratitude to YOTAN for the generous gesture, recognizing the significant impact it will have on their educational journeys. The backpacks and copybooks represent more than just school supplies; they symbolize hope, opportunity, and a renewed commitment to learning. For these girls, the donation represents a lifeline, providing them with the tools they need to pursue their education and build a better future for themselves. Their gratitude reflects the profound impact that YOTAN’s intervention has had on their lives, offering them a path towards empowerment and self-reliance. The students’ appreciation highlights the importance of continued support and investment in girls’ education, demonstrating the transformative power of such initiatives in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality.
